Gloria -- Gloria Estefan

CD reviews - New Releases

In a disco mood? Gloria Estefan returns to her party roots in her lastest disc, ``Gloria.'' This record is so much fun it's hard to sit still when you put it on. So get on your feet.

There is a Latin flavor to this production, as there always is with Estefan, who was born in Cuba and emigrated to Florida with her parents. As she spins through the generous 16-cut album you understand the continuing appeal of Gloria. She may not have the best voice, but she and producer/husband Emilio Estefan know how to package her and the sound. Seeing Estefan in concert is to witness a tough aerobic workout combined with appealing stage presence. She can work the crowd.

Also sprinkled into the mix on ``Gloria,'' is a nod to rap in ``Don't Release Me,'' a duet with Wyclef Jean. ``Ah, one, two, one two. I'd like to introduce to you Wyclef Jean with Gloria Estefan.'' As he raps, Estefan sings underneath.

There is such a retro-club feel here that the album could have been used for the soundtrack to ``Priscilla Queen of the Desert,'' the portrait of three drag queens in Australia who win over crowds of tough Aussies with their tribute to disco.

There are English and Spanish versions of the same songs on this disc. Her new single, ``Heaven's What I Feel,'' which is in Billboard's top 50 singles, is here, as is ``Cubra Libre'' and ``Oye.'' The last begins with a punchy chorus of ``Oye mi cuerpo pide salsa (my body wants salsa).'' The second version is remixed by Pablo Flores. If you're feeling blue, try spinning this.